Pickens, Tom (1936-2016)

Tom was born in Salem in 1936 to Chester and Gladys Pickens. The younger brother of Elizabeth Jean (Eggers), he grew up idolizing and simultaneously pestering her. He often reminisced about his idyllic childhood, attending Englewood Elementary, Parrish Middle School, and North Salem High, playing many sports with friends he knew to his last day. He was a standout athlete, but his children only discovered that from other people telling stories, as he was a humble man, and never one to bring attention or accolades to himself. He attended OSU, where he majored in Health Education, leading to a highly respected career in teaching and administration at many Salem-Keizer schools, including Parrish, North Salem, South Salem, and Sprague. The number of students, staff, colleagues, and families he taught, guided, encouraged, and cared for throughout his life are a testament to his kind heart and caring spirit. We will all miss his sense of humor, integrity, and commitment to his family, his friends, and his work.

Tom is survived by his wife, Marcia; children Darcie Jones (Bob), Dianna Novelli (Claudio), Danny Pickens, Cinda Ritson (Bob), David Brundage (Dameron), Jimmy Brundage; grandchildren, Taylor, Davis, Lauren, and Ian Jones, Murray Pickens, Shane and Cole Toney, Beau, Barret and Bayler Brundage, Jeffrey, Macy and Hank Brundage, and 6 great-grandchildren.

A private family gathering was held. A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on July 17th, 2016 at 1:00 in the commons at Sprauge High School. All are invited. In lieu of flowers, the family requests consideration of a donation in Tom’s name to Salem Sports and Breakfast Club, 4016 Cloudview Dr. S, Salem, OR 97302